That astonishing story of survival and rescue a dog hanging on for eight days no food no water. And that's just the beginning of this drama and Dan is here to tell us all about that -- This is an incredible story it's a story about heroism both animal and human heroism and it's also a story with a twist. That could turn it into a nasty an emotional custody battle. This is that face that launched a risky rescue mission. Two hikers Scott and Amanda Washburn came across this German shepherd named missy. At thirteen thousand feet alone hungry and wounded we couldn't fathom the idea of leaving her out there that I. The couple from Colorado couldn't get the animal down on their own so they posted her picture and location on line. Immediately twisted my god -- -- one of those and sinks -- just said okay it's time ago. The response was huge and soon -- search party of seven mostly strangers handed out. When they found -- she'd been marooned on the mountain for eight days. -- were all torn up and bloody and CC crippled it seemed like he was basically over. Very gingerly reloaded the gun into a backpack for the long walk down the image. Indelible his stock -- for evening news on the mountain without anything. And she's still the sweetest dog -- -- This morning news he's being treated for dehydration endangered -- and her prognosis is good. But here's the twist her owner and 29 year old named Anthony or -- -- scene here is FaceBook photo. Has now emerged saying he wants his dog back he didn't do enough. To get her off the mountain in -- -- through here. In an online forum order -- explains that he tried but was unable to carry his -- down the mountain by himself. I humbly beg the forgiveness of the community and most of all my missy girl the community response has been fears if you're -- after the guy. This case is now in the hands of animal control. And -- -- a deputy working the case tells ABC news that a decision about Macy's future probably won't be made for months it is possible according to this deputy that the owner could face animal cruelty charges. But -- he has a lot of supporters I'm sure she will be fine and she's doing well so that's really important -- right Dan thanks so much.

This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.

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